Bell Centre – Montreal Canadiens Stadium
Bell Centre is the home arena of the Montreal Canadiens, a professional ice hockey team based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, the arena is a popular destination for sports fans to enjoy hockey games, concerts, and other events.
The building was completed in 1996 and has a capacity of 21,302 for hockey games and up to 25,000 for concerts. It is the largest hockey arena in Canada and the second largest in North America.
The Bell Centre is owned by the Molson family, who also own the Canadiens, and operated by the Evenko entertainment company.
The arena has hosted numerous Stanley Cup Finals, NHL All-Star Games, and the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships.
The Bell Centre is also the site of the annual Canadiens Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
With its convenient location and modern amenities, the Bell Centre is a popular destination for many fans.
Bell Centre Key Facts
The Bell Centre, located in the heart of downtown Montreal, is the largest arena in the city with a seating capacity of 21,302 spectators, and is renowned for hosting concerts, figure skating competitions, and other sporting events.
It is named after its primary sponsor, Bell Canada, a major telecommunications company in Canada. The arena features three wide concourses, a Moose sports retail store, ample washrooms, and the redevelopment of the Eaton’s Powerhouse into the sports pub Tavern United.
The ice surface can convert from standard North American professional hockey dimensions to international hockey dimensions. Precast concrete was the product of choice for the construction of the Bell Centre’s main staircases, bleachers, vomitory walls, and structural frame.
The project cost $133.5 million to build, and was completed in 21 months. It is a modern arena that offers excellent sight lines from every seat, superb acoustics for concerts, and amenities for sports of all kinds.
Where is Bell Centre Located?
Situated in the downtown core of Montreal, the landmark Bell Centre serves as the home arena of the Montreal Canadiens professional hockey team. Located at 1909 Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal, Montreal, QC H4B 5G0, Canada, the Bell Centre is easily accessible with various transportation means and is surrounded by a number of attractions, restaurants, bars and hotels.
Its location makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists:
- Visitors can enjoy the game-day atmosphere at one of the most iconic hockey arenas in the world.
- Its proximity to downtown Montreal allows for easy access to the city’s many attractions, restaurants, and shopping.
- It provides a safe and secure environment for all guests, with a variety of security measures in place.
The Bell Centre is an iconic destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique experience in the heart of Montreal.
Where to Park Near the Bell Centre?
Those looking to attend an event at the landmark arena can find several parking options nearby.
The Centre Bell Parking Garage is located directly beneath the arena and features over 1,000 parking spaces.
Additionally, 1200 Rue Saint-Antoine Ouest and 1255 Rue Peel are both nearby parking lots offering hourly and daily rates.
However, it is important to note that parking can fill up quickly on game days and during special events, so it is best to arrive early to secure a spot.
How to get to Bell Centre?
Located in downtown Montreal, the Bell Centre is easily accessible by various forms of public transportation. The Montreal Metro is the quickest option, with the Lucien-L’Allier station on the Orange Line located a short walk away and Bonaventure Station on the Green Line about a 10-minute walk away. For those coming from outside the city, the Montreal Central Station (Gare Centrale) is located approximately 10 minutes away by foot.
For those traveling by bus, numerous bus routes stop close to the Bell Centre, including the 15, 107, and 150 lines.
| Number | Bus Line | Destination |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | Montreal | Downtown |
| 107 | Montreal | Westmount |
| 150 | Montreal | Lasalle |
Public transportation is an easy, convenient, and cost-effective way to get to the Bell Centre. It eliminates the hassles of parking and traffic and allows visitors to experience a hassle-free experience.
History of Bell Center
The Bell Centre has a rich history as a major Canadian sports and entertainment venue. Built at a cost of $270 million in 1996, the arena was initially known as the Molson Centre. It was designed by the architectural firm Lemay & Associates to replace the Montreal Forum, which had been the Canadiens’ home since 1924.
In 2002, the venue’s name changed to the Bell Centre after Bell Canada acquired the naming rights. The arena has hosted numerous events, such as the 2009 NHL All-Star Game, the 2016 World Cup of Hockey pre-tournament games, and the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. Figure skating competitions, including the 2017 World Figure Skating Championships, and concerts by world-renowned artists have also been held at the Bell Centre.
Renovations have been carried out in recent years to keep the venue a state-of-the-art facility, including the installation of a high-definition scoreboard, seating and concourse upgrades, and the addition of new dining and entertainment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of the Bell Centre?
The seating capacity of the Bell Centre is 21,302 people. It is a multi-purpose indoor arena, located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is the home of the National Hockey League’s Montreal Canadiens team.
Are there restaurants or concessions inside the Bell Centre?
Yes, there are a variety of restaurants and concessions available inside the arena. Options range from fast food to gourmet dining. Additionally, a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are also available.
Is there a dress code for attending an event at the Bell Centre?
Attending an event at the Bell Centre may require certain standards of dress. Generally, attendees should not wear clothes that are overly casual or that are considered inappropriate for the event. It is recommended to wear clothing that is appropriate for the occasion.
Are there any discounts available for tickets to the Bell Centre?
Tickets to events at the Bell Centre may be discounted depending on the event and the availability of promotions. Patrons should inquire with the ticketing office about discounts or promotional offers that may be applicable.
Are there any guided tours of the Bell Centre available?
Guided tours of the Bell Centre are available. Visitors can explore the stadium and learn about its history, from the main arena to the press box, and take a closer look at the Montreal Canadiens.
